FDA Cleared
Barrier Method

Diaphragm

A reusable silicone dome that covers the cervix to block sperm, used with spermicide each time you have sex.

Last verified: · Updated:

Diaphragm (Barrier Method)Compare

Method at a Glance

Effectiveness

83 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy in a year.

Typical use effectiveness rate.

DurationReusable for 1-2 years (replace every 1-2 years or sooner if damaged)
Cost$60–$112
ReversibilityReversible
STI ProtectionNo
How you get itIn-Person Fitting · Prescription required
Available Products

2 products in this category

Specific branded items that use this method. Compare manufacturer details, active ingredients, and regulatory status.

FDA Cleared
CD
Diaphragm

Caya Diaphragm

A single-size contoured silicone barrier that fits many users without a custom fitting.

Diaphragm
FDA Cleared
MW
Diaphragm

Milex Wide-Seal Diaphragm

A traditional multi-size silicone diaphragm that needs a custom fitting by a clinician.

Diaphragm
Providers

358 providers in this category

Clinics and telehealth services in our directory that offer this method.

Planned Parenthood - Albany Health Center

Albany, NY 12206

Family Planning Clinic

Hybrid Medicaid
Website (518) 434-5678

Planned Parenthood - Alhambra Health Center

Alhambra, CA 91801

Family Planning Clinic

Hybrid Medicaid
Website (626) 798-0706

Planned Parenthood - Allentown Health Center

Allentown, PA 18101

Family Planning Clinic

In-Person Medicaid
Website (610) 439-1033
See all diaphragm providers
The details

What the evidence says

How well it works, what to watch for, who should avoid it, and the studies behind it.

How well it works

83%(perfect use: 84%)

Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

How was this measured?▾

First-year failure rates are 17% with typical use and 16% with perfect use, so diaphragms are 83% and 84% effective.

Research sourceGuttmacher Institute Contraceptive Effectiveness / Contraceptive Technology 21st ed.

Cost & insurance

$60–$112

Device only (one-size-fits-most Caya diaphragm, reusable up to 2 years); US pharmacy retail $60-$112 as of 2026 (SingleCare, Rx.com). Fitting visit and spermicide are extra. Prices vary, so check with your pharmacy or clinic.

Insurance CoverageUsually

Duration & reversibility

Lasts forReusable for 1-2 years (replace every 1-2 years or sooner if damaged)
Reversibility
Reversible
STI ProtectionNo

The science

How it works in the body

A reusable silicone dome covers the cervix to block sperm from entering the uterus. Used with spermicide for added effectiveness.

Regulatory status & access

StatusFDA Cleared
Used forBirth control
How you get itIn-Person Fitting · Prescription required
PrescriptionRequired

Side effects

  • Increased risk of urinary tract infection
  • Vaginal irritation from spermicide
  • Discomfort if not fitted correctly

Who shouldn't use this

  • •Uterine or cervical anomaly preventing fit(An atypically shaped uterus that prevents correct placement)
  • •Sensitivity to silicone or spermicide(An allergy or sensitivity to a material used in a device or barrier)
  • •Inability to insert or remove reliably(The method requires reliable technique; inability to use it correctly reduces effectiveness)

Clinical guidelines

CDC

U.S. MEC Category 1 for nulliparous users; Category 2 for parous users; Category 3 for persons with HIV infection; Category 4 for persons at high risk of HIV infection when used with spermicide

View Guideline
The full picture

What to know about Diaphragm

How to use it

The diaphragm is a reusable silicone dome that covers the cervix to block sperm. You apply spermicide inside the dome before inserting it, then leave it in place for at least six hours after sex.

How well it works

Diaphragms are less effective than long-acting methods like IUDs, but they give you control over when you use contraception and have no hormones. With typical use, they are about 83% effective.

Where to get it

You need a prescription and a fitting from a clinician. A contoured, one-size-fits-most silicone diaphragm does not require a custom fitting in many cases. Some telehealth services ship a one-size-fits-most diaphragm after a brief consultation, while traditional diaphragms require an in-person fitting. Check our provider directory for clinics near you that offer diaphragm fittings.